Abstract

Summary

The indirect fluorescein-labeled antibody technic was used and evaluated in the serodiagnosis of kala-azar in humans. The tests were performed on slides using Leishmania donovani leptomonad forms as antigen. Evans blue, employed as a counter-stain, resulted in improved contrast, thus making the test easier to interpret, yet did not significantly diminish the specific yellow-green fluorescence.

Occasional cross-reactions were observed with specimens from individuals with viral, bacterial, mycotic, and parasitic infections as well as with degenerative diseases. Although cross-reactions were frequently observed in individuals with mucocutaneous leishmaniasis, negative results were reported from L. tropica patients. Reliable testing for visceral leishmaniasis fluorescent antibodies was possible even when dried blood smears were used instead of serum.